The Volkswagen AWH is a 1,781 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 20 valves. Employing a Bosch Motronic ME7.5 engine management system and a K03 turbocharger, it delivered 150 PS, providing strong mid-range pull for its era.
Fitted to models such as the Mk4 Golf, Bora, and SEAT León, the AWH was engineered for responsive performance and everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through secondary air injection and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards for its production period.
One documented concern is premature failure of the plastic coolant flange located at the rear of the engine head, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 20‑08‑03 M2. This component, prone to cracking with age and thermal cycling, can lead to coolant loss. Later production runs and replacement parts switched to a more durable material.
Volkswagen
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Volkswagen AWH is a 1,781 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact performance hatchbacks and sedans (2000-2005). It combines a K03 turbocharger with a 20-valve head to deliver responsive power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances sporty character with acceptable emissions for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.4 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 1,750–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point electronic injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett K03 (with integrated wastegate) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 503 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 147 kg |
The turbocharged setup provides brisk acceleration but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00/503 00 (5W-40) oil to protect the turbo bearings. The timing belt must be replaced every 120,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first, as failure in this interference engine causes catastrophic damage. The plastic coolant flange (STB 20-08-03 M2) is a known weak point; proactive replacement with the revised metal version is highly recommended. Secondary air injection system faults are common and can trigger check engine lights.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 503 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across documented applications (Volkswagen Group PT-2003).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (ETKA): Docs 06A 103 084, 06A 103 085
Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin: 20-08-03 M2
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme: SSP 259
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
The Volkswagen AWH was used across Volkswagen's Mk4 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the Bora sedan-and was also fitted to SEAT models sharing the PQ34 platform. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the fuel rail and injectors (Volkswagen SSP 259). The 8th digit of the VIN for Golf/Bora is typically 'H' for this engine variant. Visually, it features a black plastic intake manifold with '1.8T' embossed on top and a Garrett K03 turbocharger. Critical differentiation from later AUM engine: AWH uses a specific ECU part number (06A 906 032 AF) and may have minor vacuum line routing differences. Service parts, particularly for the cooling system, require verification against the ETKA catalogue due to running changes.
The AWH's primary reliability risk is coolant loss from the plastic flange, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Volkswagen STB 20-08-03 M2 documents this widespread issue, while owner reports frequently cite timing belt neglect as a cause of catastrophic failure. Infrequent coolant changes and extended service intervals make proactive flange replacement and strict timing belt adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2000-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AWH.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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